Risk of Side Effects From MS Medicines

Skip Navigation
Out of 100 people who have had an MS-like episode but have not been diagnosed with MS, 45 to 58 out of 100 may progress to an MS diagnosis if they don't take medicines. If they do take medicines, 34 to 35 out of 100 may progress to an MS diagnosis. Out of 100 people taking glatiramer acetate, 12 will need to be hospitalized at some point during a 2-year period, compared to 20 people out of 100 who are taking a placebo.

The information shown here is based on the best available evidence.

Current as of: December 20, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.